These holiday main courses (that aren't turkey) offer a deliciously different way to create a festive meal. If you're paring down your usual gathering but still want to celebrate, these recipes provide an impressive centerpiece without the commitment of a whole turkey.
What's Great About These Main Courses
- These dishes require less prep time than a traditional holiday meal, so you can spend more time with loved ones or just relaxing.
- They’re easy to make but still feel festive and special.
- Many budget-friendly choices are included, so you can enjoy great flavors without breaking the bank.
- Perfect for smaller gatherings, making it easy to create a memorable holiday meal.
From French onion pot roast to simple roasted chicken, each recipe is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and something special for your holiday table. These dishes bring all the warmth of the season, making your celebration memorable—no turkey required.
French onion pot roast
This recipe turns an affordable cut, beef chuck roast, into a melt-in-your-mouth holiday main. Cooked low and slow with sautéed onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a rich onion soup broth, it’s the perfect, hearty centerpiece for your holiday table!
Easy oven roasted pork butt with garlic and herbs
This oven-roasted pork butt makes a fantastic main for special occasions or holiday gatherings. Slow-roasted with fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, and plenty of garlic, this dish is rich in flavor and holiday-worthy.
Baked manicotti
This baked manicotti, stuffed with a three-cheese blend and topped with a savory Italian sausage tomato sauce, makes a cozy and satisfying holiday main. Made with a mix of fresh and pantry ingredients, it delivers homemade flavor in a fraction of the time—a perfect addition to your festive table.
Slow roasted pork shoulder
This slow-roasted pork shoulder is fall-apart tender with a deliciously crusty exterior and a juicy, succulent interior. Rubbed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, then roasted low and slow, it’s a flavorful, show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast.
Simple roasted chicken
This simple whole roasted chicken is a perfect, crowd-pleasing choice for the holidays. With crispy skin and juicy meat, it’s seasoned simply with salt and pepper, while fresh herbs and lemon slices flavor the pan drippings. Delicious, versatile, and perfect for a small holiday gathering.
Stovetop pot roast
This comfort food classic makes a fantastic holiday main! Cooked low and slow on the stovetop until it’s fall-apart tender, this easy pot roast is a reliable favorite and a crowd-pleaser—perfect for a holiday gathering with very little fuss.
Baked ziti with sausage
This baked ziti with sausage is a holiday favorite—it’s easier than lasagna but still packed with flavor and plenty of cheese! Italian sausage adds tons of flavor, allowing us to keep the ingredient list simple. This easy, comforting dish is sure to be a family favorite at any holiday gathering.
Cuban roast pork (lechon asado)
This Cuban roast pork, or lechon asado, makes a flavorful holiday main. Marinated overnight in a homemade mojo, then cooked low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender, it’s a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Short ribs
Here’s some good old comfort food, perfect for a holiday meal! In this recipe, short ribs are braised in a rich, flavorful sauce made with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, red wine, tomato sauce, beef broth, and spices. The sauce is just as delicious as the ribs—serve with mashed potatoes in lieu of gravy for a deliciously different festive dish.
French onion pork chops
These French onion pork chops bring together the rich flavors of French onion soup with juicy pork chops, making them a delicious option for an intimate holiday dinner. It’s also an affordable choice for feeding a smaller gathering. As a plus, this easy, one-pan recipe comes together in about 30 minutes.
Pork pot roast
In this pork pot roast, boneless pork shoulder is cooked low and slow on the stovetop with herbs, spices, and vegetables until it’s fall-apart tender. This wonderful dish is an affordable alternative to traditional pot roast, bringing warmth and comfort to your holiday table.
Chicken francaise
Chicken francaise is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a holiday celebration. Thin chicken cutlets are dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in egg, and gently fried in olive oil and butter. The pan drippings make a flavorful white wine and lemon sauce, which is drizzled over the chicken and served on a bed of pasta.
Thank you for reading, and I hope this collection inspires your holiday dinner planning! Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and, of course, delicious food!
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